Despite allowing 482 yards of total offense, the Grand Valley State University football team earned their third-consecutive win on Saturday, defeating Lake Erie College by a score of 61-31.

In a game that saw Lake Erie (1-6, 0-6 GLIAC) hang within two points of the Lakers (4-3, 3-3 GLIAC) through three quarters of play, the GVSU defense found its footing in the fourth quarter and their two interceptions of Lake Erie quarterback Sean Bedevelsky – including one by sophomore safety Erik Thompson that was returned 49-yards for the game’s final touchdown.
Despite the final deficit, the Storm stuck with the Lakers throughout the game, trailing 33-31 entering the fourth quarter. Bedevelsky finished 22-of-38 for 280 yards passing and two touchdowns, while freshman running back Rod Smith finished the game with 77 yards and a touchdown on 15 carries.

The fourth quarter was all GVSU, as the Lakers put 28 unanswered points on the board to finish the Storm off. Junior running back Norman Shuford opened the fourth with a 49-yard touchdown scamper, while accumulating a whopping 285 yards of total offense.
Backfield partner Hersey Jackson made an impact in his first game back from a shoulder injury as well, totaling 118 yards rushing on only 14 carries.

Despite the gaudy numbers on the ground, the GVSU passing game also played well despite 22 mph winds. Sophomore quarterback Heath Parling went 9-of-20 for 200 yards and a pair of touchdowns, one of which went to junior receiver Charles Johnson, who finished with five catches for 74 yards and the score.

The Lakers will return to practice this week in preparation of next week’s rivalry game against Ferris State University at Lubbers Stadium.

[email protected]